Category: MIL-OSI

Source: New Zealand Police

One person has died following a water-related incident in Hahei this afternoon.

At around 3.15pm, Police were alerted to a man in need of assistance in the water near Tutaritari Road.

The man was located in the water and was taken ashore in a critical condition.

Sadly, despite best efforts by emergency services, the man died at the scene.

Enquiries into the incident are ongoing.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

Police are warning motorists to plan ahead and expect delays, due to the closure of State Highway 2 through Waioeka Gorge.

There is a significant increase in traffic on State Highway 2 south of Gisborne and large numbers of vehicles through Bayview.

If you’re on the roads, please factor in delays and additional traffic – and drive to the conditions.

Motorists can also check NZTA’s Journey Planner for the latest highway conditions at https://www.journeys.nzta.govt.nz/regions

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Superintendent Matt Srhoj, Northland District Commander:

An investigation is continuing into the circumstances around the death of a pedestrian in Haruru Falls at the weekend.

A male pedestrian was struck by a vehicle on Puketona Road just after 12.10am on Sunday, 18 January.

Sadly, he died at the scene despite medical assistance being provided at the time.

At the time of the crash, a marked Police patrol vehicle was in the area. This unit had slowed down on Puketona Road to speak with pedestrians who had been seen walking on the road.

The crash occurred a short time later, where a member of the public’s vehicle struck one of the pedestrians.

Due to the presence of the patrol vehicle just prior to the crash, Police have made the decision to refer the incident to the Independent Police Conduct Authority.

A critical incident investigation will also be carried out.

Police can confirm the driver of the vehicle that struck the pedestrian stopped immediately after the crash. This vehicle has been seized, and a thorough scene examination has been carried out by serious crash investigators.

Our enquiries will continue into the crash.

This is an incredibly tragic event for all concerned, and our thoughts are with the pedestrian’s family at this difficult time.

Support is also in place for our two frontline members who were in the Police vehicle at the time the crash occurred. This has been devastating for them, and it is the last thing anyone would have wanted to happen.

Police will look to release further information about the man in due course.

As part of enquiries, Police would like to hear from anyone in the area or with information.

We particularly want to hear from anyone travelling through Haruru Falls between 11.55pm on Saturday 17 January, and 12.10am on Sunday 18 January.

If you have dash camera footage or noticed the pedestrians, please contact Police on 105 using the reference number 260118/4319.

ENDS.

Jarred Williamson/NZ Police

Source: New Zealand Police

Please attribute to Sergeant Jonny Evans, Police Search and Rescue

Disoriented by heavy cloud and with weather conditions closing in, one wrong turn was all it took to send Graham Garnett deep within the Kahurangi National Park for almost three weeks.

His family did not know if they would see him again. However, incredibly, he was found alive – and his loved ones want to ensure his ordeal reminds others to take safety precautions before heading into the bush.

“He’s extremely lucky to be alive,” says Sergeant Jonny Evans, officer in charge of the Police Search and Rescue operation.

“Graham had been on the move much of the time, and had sustained injuries along the way.”

“He had tried to get himself out numerous ways, by following streams and ridges and finally finding the Karamea River, which he recognised, and which led him back to Venus Hut.

“As part of an extensive Police-led operation, Land Search and Rescue staff had checked the hut early into the search, along with other huts in the area. Graham had arrived there only a day or so before the contractors discovered him.

“Even following suspension of the search, Police and Land Search and Rescue continued to support the family in their efforts to bring Graham home.”

Graham remains in hospital, surrounded by his loved ones. His family have requested privacy as he continues to heal.

However, Police and his family want to remind anyone heading out into the bush or back country to go prepared, to increase your chance of survival, should the unthinkable happen, Sergeant Evans says.

“New Zealand has spectacular back country areas and a great outdoors culture. However, being stranded in the bush for days or weeks on end can be incredibly harsh and, in many cases, isn’t survivable.

“We want anyone heading out to take the appropriate precautions and come home safely.”

Police recommend the following:

• Anyone entering the back country should/must be carrying a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB), a device that makes your rescue possible at the touch of a button, as well as a paper map and a handheld GPS with spare batteries.
• While cellphones can sometimes be helpful, they should not be relied upon as your primary communication device due to their limited battery life and the limited coverage in the back country. Satellite cellphone services are growing and should be looked into.
• When traveling through the back country and passing or using huts, it is critical for trampers to make entries in the hut books. This allows responders to track their movements and gain understanding into their planned movements.
• Always plan your trip, and make sure friends or loved ones know what your plan is. This could be crucial information to pass on to a search party.
• If you do become lost or injured, stay where you are and make yourself visible to searchers. If it is safe to do so, light a fire to alert searchers to your position or signal in any way using brightly coloured items. Simple items can be carried such as a small mirror and whistle that can be used to signal your position.
• The NZ Mountain safety Council website www.mountainsafety.org.nz is the place to go to learn so much more about planning your adventures and what to do if things don’t go to plan.

Statement on behalf of the family of Graham Garnett:

We, the family of Graham Garnett, have been overwhelmed by the support given to us as we searched for Graham.

We want to acknowledge the time and effort put in by the NZ Police and Land Search and Rescue including searchers on the ground, in the rivers and in the air.

We are also deeply thankful to those who joined two private searches. Your professionalism, compassion and expertise were exemplary. To those who helped us in the field by providing radios, freeze dried meals and specialist searching skills and equipment we are truly grateful. We also thank friends and family who gave love and support in many different ways.

Last but not least, we are in awe of Graham, his incredible self-reliance, resilience and perseverance. Words cannot express how overjoyed we are to have him back and we acknowledge the Kahurangi National Park as a place of rugged beauty.

ENDS

Issued by the Police Media Centre

Source: New Zealand Government

New Zealand and Kiribati have enhanced their Pacific partnership, Foreign Minister Winston Peters and Kiribati Vice President Dr Teuea Toatu announced in Tarawa today. 

“Our two countries have had significant political-level dialogue over the past six months, and New Zealand is pleased this has culminated in the signing of a Statement of Partnership today,” Mr Peters says. 

“New Zealand and Kiribati share a warm and long-standing relationship and a good understanding of each other’s perspectives,” Mr Peters says. 

“Building on our discussions with Kiribati’s President Taneti Maamau in Honiara and New York last year, today’s Statement of Partnership recognises our shared geography and history as Pacific nations. It also formalises the strong and long-established cooperation New Zealand and Kiribati enjoy – including in health, labour mobility and security.”

Mr Peters and Kiribati Vice President Dr Teuea Toatu met in Tarawa today, where they discussed the New Zealand-Kiribati relationship, regional and global issues of mutual interest, and the importance of the Pacific Islands Forum in fostering regional cooperation in a challenging geostrategic environment.

 Mr Peters, alongside Vice President Toatu, also announced:

• A further commitment by New Zealand towards the prevention of non-communicable diseases and support for maternal and child health in Kiribati;
• Renewed support for the Strengthening Pacific Labour Mobility programme to Kiribati, enabling more Kiribati workers to participate in New Zealand’s Recognised Seasonal Employer scheme; and
• Increased funding to address water security in Kiribati through the Pacific Partnership for Atoll Water Security, in partnership with the Pacific Community (SPC). 

This is Mr Peters’ second official visit to Kiribati, following his last trip here in 2019.

“Being back in Tarawa has underlined both the acute challenges that Kiribati faces, and the serious and important contribution New Zealand can and should make to help meet them,” Mr Peters says. 

Mr Peters has, during the current Parliamentary term, undertaken official visits to all 17 other members of the Pacific Islands Forum.

Source: New Zealand Government

[Statement was signed in Kiribati on 19 January 2026 by New Zealand Minister of Foreign Affairs Winston Peters and Kiribati Vice President Honourable Dr. Teuea Toatu.]

TE MAURI DIALOGUE

Kiribati – New Zealand Statement of Partnership- Tei Wawaaki n Ararakea te Maeuraoi

This Statement of Partnership sets out the shared principles, priorities and understandings that will guide cooperation and engagement between the Government of the Republic of Kiribati and the Government of New Zealand over the five-year period from 2026-2030.

In coming together in this partnership, we affirm that our long-established relationship is founded on mutual respect and friendship. We recognise this relationship is grounded in shared Pacific identity and culture and strengthened by the growing links between our peoples and our common interests in the Blue Pacific Continent. As our relationship continues to grow we will be able to increasingly discuss issues of mutual interest, acknowledging not only our shared values and priorities but also where our values and priorities differ.

We highlight the importance of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals as a shared horizon to improve the lives of our peoples and our planet. We are guided by our joint commitment to the 2050 Strategy for the Blue Pacific Continent. We acknowledge the Kiribati 20 Year Vision (KV20), the Kiribati Development Plan (KDP) and New Zealand’s goal of supporting a peaceful, prosperous and resilient Pacific.

We recognise the intensifying regional and global challenges that our countries are facing. In that context we reaffirm the shared values at the heart of our partnership – including a common commitment to addressing the threat posed by climate change; promoting, respecting, and advancing human rights and democratic governance; and working with Pacific and other partners towards peace, prosperity, and sustainability. In addition, we recognise the importance of cooperation in the Pacific Islands Forum and other regional and international fora to the achievement of our goals under this Partnership.

Koaua aika boton te Reitaki – Partnership Principles

Under this Statement of Partnership, Kiribati and New Zealand will work collaboratively according to the shared principles of:

• respect and understanding for our respective values and perspectives as well as for our unique cultures and traditions;
• striving for solutions of mutual benefit when developing domestic and foreign policy, including considering impacts for the wider Pacific region;
• collective ambition in working together for the good of present and future generations to develop effective solutions to achieve our sustainable development goals;
• seeking sustainability by focusing on our long-term goals and greater resilience, and ensuring that we use environmental, financial, and human resources wisely.

Karikirake Aika A Kakawaki Ibukin Te Reitaki – Priority Areas for Cooperation

Priority Area 1: Te Reitaki | Partnership, Democracy and Values

• Foster connections between our peoples and institutions, including through education, labour mobility, support for civil society and cultural exchanges.
• Pursue  greater understanding and strategic coordination between Kiribati and New Zealand on our respective foreign policy priorities.
• Work together to progress regional priorities and strengthen coordination on multilateral issues.
• Promote and advocate good governance, accountability, transparency, and democracy, and the fundamental human rights and freedoms for all.

Priority Area 2: Te Mauri | Health and Wellbeing

• Improve public health outcomes for I-Kiribati, particularly in the areas of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health (RMNCAH).
• Support more inclusive and equitable health and well-being for all I-Kiribati, including improving access to healthcare for women, children, people living with disabilities, and other vulnerable groups.
• Address the social and environmental determinants of health, particularly in the areas of critical utilities and relating to the impacts of climate change.

Priority Area 3: Te Raoi | Peace and Security

• Engage in open dialogue on shared security challenges, guided by regional commitments including the Biketawa Declaration, Boe Declaration and Blue Pacific Ocean of Peace Declaration.
• Promote partnership on maritime, aviation and land management.
• Build and enhance the key drivers for resilience to minimise the impact of climate change and disasters.

Priority Area 4: Te Tabomoa | Prosperity

• Strengthen economic resilience and governance including through agreed reforms, support and opportunities for closer economic integration, including through PACER Plus.
• Invest in Kiribati’s human resource development, from early childhood development through to vocational and tertiary education, to support improved employment opportunities, productivity and economic growth.
• Continue and grow our close partnership in sustainable fisheries management and development as a vehicle for economic development, including cooperation in regional fisheries architecture.

Te boraoi n iango – Shared Understandings

To give practical effect to our ambitions, Kiribati and New Zealand will hold each other mutually accountable under this Statement of Partnership, with a strong focus on results.

To achieve this, we will work together in the following ways:

• Support regular bilateral Ministerial visits and consultations on issues of mutual interest, including planned regular meetings between our President/Prime Minister and Foreign Ministers.
• Hold annual Partnership Talks to discuss progress made in the priority areas set out in this Statement.
• Cooperate to protect and promote regional approaches and institutions to address regional issues and opportunities.
• Coordinate long-term and predictable development assistance in agreed priority areas in line with the KV20, Kiribati Development Plans and Kiribati Foreign Policy 2024.
• Pursue development activities that are inclusive, sustainable, resilient, and effective.

 This Statement of Partnership will take effect on the date of its signature. Any jointly approved amendment to the partnership principles, or priorities will be decided by both Partners in writing.

Source: New Zealand Police

State Highway 2, Waiora, is currently blocked following a crash this morning.

Police were called to the single-vehicle crash, where a truck has overturned, around 10.40am.

Thankfully, the driver was not injured, however unfortunately a number of livestock were on board.

State Highway 2 is closed between Cricklewood Road and Kiwi Valley Road.

Motorists are advised to take alternative routes where possible, and expect delays.

ENDS

Source: NZ Department of Conservation

Date:  19 January 2026

The Hauraki DOC team’s new ‘Walking into Happiness!’ initiative encourages people to take up the challenge to walk a selection of tracks in the picturesque Kauaeranga Valley, which together add up to 23 km – further than a half-marathon.

Community Ranger Maree Limpus says summer is a wonderful time to get out naturing in the great outdoors, and experience the calmness and clarity this can bring.

“Whether you’re with friends or whānau, it’s all about connecting with the whenua, with yourself, and with each other.

“Walking is a proven, simple and uplifting way to boost both your physical health and your mental wellbeing,” Maree says.

“Connecting with nature enriches people’s lives and gives an opportunity to understand and appreciate the natural and cultural heritage DOC protects for New Zealanders and visitors.

“Sometimes all we need is a little encouragement to get out and do something that can bring us joy and satisfaction – we hope this might provide the encouragement where needed!

“It also raises awareness of the local resources and opportunities available for our community and visitors.”

Maree says one family of five from Levin – comprising two parents and three children camping in the valley for five days – completed the challenge last week, and reported back to Kat Quax in DOC Hauraki team about how much they enjoyed themselves.

“After finishing the tracks comprising the challenge, they told Kat they were buzzing, and loved it. It was terrific to have that feedback so immediately.”

The tracks chosen for Walk Into Happiness! are all accessible within 20 km of the centre of Thames meaning the carbon footprint is low and cycling is an option. Maree says all tracks included in the initiative are managed by DOC, clearly defined and are suitable for most ages.

A map is available at DOC’s Kauaeranga Visitor Centre and walkers will find a motivational reminder placed at each of the selected tracks. Entry to Walking into Happiness! is by gold coin donation, which can be paid to the visitor centre team. All proceeds go towards conservation initiatives.

There are spot prizes for those who participate, including a family night in one of the DOC cottages in the Kauaeranga Valley. People who complete all the walks comprising the half-marathon also receive a small reward recognising their achievement.

The Walk into Happiness! challenge is underway now and will run through the year. The first major spot prize will be drawn on the first day of winter – 1 June.

The Kauaeranga Visitor Centre is open daily between 8.30 am and 4 pm, and is a short drive from Thames.

Contact

Source: NZCTU

Rising costs, deteriorating public services, and a belief the government doesn’t care about ordinary New Zealanders are the key findings of the NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi’s annual Mood of the Workforce survey.

2026 saw the largest response since the Mood of the Workforce Survey was introduced in 2019. A total of 3,578 people responded over the survey period (4-12 January 2026).

“This year’s Mood of the Workforce survey paints a grim picture of widespread hardship, with families struggling to afford the essentials needed just to survive,” said NZCTU President Sandra Grey.

“Working people consistently reported that wages aren’t keeping up with costs, leaving even full-time workers struggling to afford basics like housing, food, and power.

“Families should have enough to give their kids the best start in life, not be worried about whether they can put food on the table or warm the house during winter.

“Across the economy workers are dealing with understaffing, long hours, and burnout, while public servants describe a system at breaking point due to relentless cuts and constant change.

“Many stated they are worried that public services are being deliberately run down to open the door to privatisation and even more cuts to essential services.

“More than 70% of respondents rated the performance of the Government as “very bad”, with only 2.3% of people saying they approved of their performance. Workers clearly have no faith in this Government to improve their economic wellbeing.

“This Government was elected to deal with the cost-of-living, but instead they have made it worse by cutting services and failing to address rising costs. Workers have had enough.

“People are demanding bold change, and its past time politicians listened. We urgently need to address the concerns of working people, or we risk increasing political alienation and distrust in government,” said Grey.

Source: New Zealand Police

Attributable to Detective Senior Sergeant Tim Leitch:

Police investigating serious assaults in Churton Park can confirm a further two offenders have been taken into custody.

A 21-year-old man will appear in the Wellington District Court on 22 January and a 17-year-old man will appear in the Wellington Youth Court on 27 January. They jointly face wounding, assault to injure and common assault charges.

They join a 18-year-old man charged earlier this week with multiple counts including wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, assault with intent to injure, and common assault. He is due to appear in Wellington District Court on 29 January 2026.

The fourth offender remains outstanding.

The investigation into the matter follows Police attending a premises on Churton Park on Saturday 13 December 2025 where seven people were seriously assaulted.

Initial enquiries established the alleged offenders attended the Mobil Gas Station in Johnsonville around 20 minutes prior to the incident, which provided Police with CCTV footage of the offenders.

Police would like to thank the community for their excellent assistance that resulted in these arrests and would like their help once again to help locate the fourth offender.

The unlocated suspect was said to be wearing a grey hoodie, beige / grey shorts, and black sneakers on the night, not captured in the images. His violent offending is most likely known to the people around him, and we appeal for those that know him to contact Police with his name.

If you know who this is, please get in touch with us online at 105.police.govt.nz, clicking ‘Update Report’, using the reference number 251217/8772.

Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers online or through 0800 555 111.

ENDS

Issued by Police Media Centre